On a rocky spur at the narrowest point in the Lot Valley, Montferrand castle still stands proudly in ruins. The castle’s origins date back to the late 11th century. Strategically located on the borders of Rouergue and Gévaudan, it was at one time a stronghold of the King of Aragon, the Bishop of Mende and the King of France: in other words, 3 powers vying to dominate this part of Occitania. In the 13th century, it became one of the territory’s most important strongholds.
Ruin of Château de Montferrand in the commune of Banassac, overlooking the Lot Valley.Ruin of Château de Montferrand in the commune of Banassac, overlooking the Lot Valley.
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Château de Montferrand
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Montferrand castle
Ruins of Château de Montferrand, located on a rocky spur above the Lot Valley in the commune of Banassac.Ruins of Château de Montferrand, located on a rocky spur above the Lot Valley in the commune of Banassac.
Ruin of Château de Montferrand in the commune of Banassac, overlooking the Lot Valley.Ruin of Château de Montferrand in the commune of Banassac, overlooking the Lot Valley.
DID YOU KNOW?
All that remains of the majestic château of yesteryear are a few ruins. Despite this, the site overlooking the Lot river and the hamlet still radiates superb beauty, and its old stones seem to tell us of the times when lords, knights and even the future pope passed through its walls.
The home of a man of great importance
In 1308, Guillaume de Grimoard, Seigneur de Grizac, married Amphélise de Sabran, Dame de Montferrand, who gave birth to Guillaume de Grimoard, the future Pope Urbain V.
In 1721, at the time of the Great Plague, the château sheltered the King’s troops, as Montferrand was well placed between Corréjac (the first village in Gévaudan to be hit by the plague) and La Canourgue.
- How do I get to Château de Montferrand?
Château de Montferrand is located high above the village of Montferrand, close to Banassac and not far from the Booz lake.
- Is the château accessible?
The ruins of the Château de Montferrand are easily visible along the path, but are not secured, so access is not recommended.
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